There’s something magical about jasmine milk tea that transforms an ordinary afternoon into a moment of pure indulgence. This beloved beverage combines the delicate floral notes of jasmine tea with rich creamy milk creating a drink that’s both soothing and luxurious. Whether you’re craving a cozy evening treat or looking to impress guests with something special jasmine milk tea delivers that perfect balance of elegance and comfort.
We’ve perfected this homemade jasmine milk tea recipe to capture the authentic flavors you’d find in your favorite tea shop. The secret lies in properly brewing the jasmine tea to release its subtle fragrance without overwhelming bitterness then combining it with just the right amount of milk and sweetener.
Making jasmine milk tea at home is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. With just a few quality ingredients and our step-by-step guide you’ll be sipping this aromatic delight in minutes. Let’s jump into creating your own cup of floral bliss.
Ingredients
Our jasmine milk tea recipe requires just a handful of quality ingredients to create that perfect balance of floral aroma and creamy richness. We’ve organized everything you need into three simple categories to make your shopping and preparation effortless.
For the Jasmine Tea Base
- 4 cups filtered water
- 4 tablespoons loose leaf jasmine tea (or 6 jasmine tea bags)
- 1 teaspoon additional jasmine flowers (optional for enhanced floral notes)
For the Milk Tea
- 1 cup whole milk (room temperature)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2-3 tablespoons granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
- Pinch of salt (to enhance flavors)
Optional Add-ins and Sweeteners
- 2 tablespoons condensed milk (for extra sweetness and creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (natural sweetener alternatives)
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (for depth)
- Ice cubes (for iced version)
- Boba pearls or grass jelly (for texture)
- Brown sugar syrup (for bubble tea style)
Equipment and Tools Needed
Creating the perfect jasmine milk tea requires having the right equipment on hand to ensure smooth preparation and optimal flavor extraction. We’ve organized these essential tools to help you gather everything before starting your brewing journey.
Essential Brewing Equipment
A medium-sized pot serves as our primary vessel for boiling water and preparing any tapioca pearls you might want to add. This pot should hold at least 4 cups of water comfortably to accommodate our recipe proportions.
We need a fine-mesh strainer to remove tea leaves after the steeping process. This tool ensures our finished tea remains smooth and free from any loose particles that could affect the drinking experience.
Measuring and Mixing Tools
Accurate measurements make the difference between good and exceptional jasmine milk tea. We recommend having both measuring cups and measuring spoons available to portion ingredients precisely according to our recipe specifications.
A mixing spoon becomes essential for stirring tea, milk, and sweetener together. Choose a long-handled spoon that can reach the bottom of your serving cups easily.
Serving Essentials
Quality serving cups enhance the entire tea experience. We suggest using clear glasses or ceramic mugs that showcase the beautiful color of your finished jasmine milk tea.
| Equipment | Primary Function | Size Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Medium pot | Boil water and cook boba | 4+ cup capacity |
| Fine-mesh strainer | Remove tea leaves | Small to medium |
| Measuring cups | Portion liquids | 1 cup and ½ cup |
| Measuring spoons | Measure small amounts | Tablespoon and teaspoon |
| Mixing spoon | Stir ingredients | Long-handled |
| Serving cups | Present finished tea | 12-16 oz capacity |
Optional Specialty Items
Fat bubble tea straws transform your jasmine milk tea into an authentic boba experience when you add tapioca pearls. These wide straws allow the pearls to pass through easily while sipping.
Having these tools ready before you begin ensures a seamless preparation process and helps you achieve consistent results every time you make this delightful beverage.
Instructions
Follow these detailed steps to create the perfect jasmine milk tea that rivals your favorite tea shop. We’ll guide you through each stage to ensure optimal flavor extraction and the ideal balance of floral and creamy notes.
Prep the Jasmine Tea
We begin by measuring 4 tablespoons of loose leaf jasmine tea or 6 tea bags into our brewing vessel. Filter your water for the clearest taste possible as water quality directly impacts the final flavor profile. Heat 4 cups of filtered water to the optimal temperature range of 160-180°F rather than a rolling boil. This temperature range prevents the delicate jasmine flowers from becoming bitter while still extracting their aromatic oils effectively.
Brew the Perfect Tea Base
Pour the heated water over your jasmine tea and allow it to steep for 3-8 minutes depending on your strength preference. We recommend starting with 5 minutes for a balanced flavor that won’t overpower the milk component. Watch the water transform into a golden amber color as the jasmine essence infuses throughout. Strain the tea thoroughly using a fine mesh strainer to remove all tea leaves and jasmine flowers. This step prevents any floral residue from creating an unpleasant texture in your finished drink.
Prepare the Milk Component
Measure 1 cup of whole milk and ½ cup of heavy cream for the richest consistency. The combination of milk and cream creates the perfect base that complements rather than masks the jasmine flavor. Gently warm the milk mixture in a small saucepan over medium low heat until steam begins to rise. Avoid boiling the dairy as this can cause it to separate or develop an undesirable taste.
Combine Tea and Milk
Add the warmed milk mixture to your brewed jasmine tea slowly while stirring continuously. This gradual combination prevents the milk from curdling due to temperature differences. Mix thoroughly until the tea and milk blend seamlessly into a uniform light brown color. The aroma should balance floral jasmine notes with creamy richness.
Sweeten and Flavor
Stir in 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar while the tea mixture remains warm for easy dissolution. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the overall flavor complexity and bring out the natural sweetness. Taste and adjust the sweetness level according to your preference using honey or condensed milk as alternatives. The sweetener should complement rather than overpower the delicate jasmine essence.
Serve and Garnish
Pour the finished jasmine milk tea into your prepared serving cups while still warm for the traditional hot version. For an iced variation add ice cubes to chilled glasses before pouring the cooled tea mixture. Garnish with tapioca pearls or grass jelly if desired for added texture and visual appeal. Serve immediately while the flavors remain at their peak intensity.
Directions for Hot Jasmine Milk Tea
Now that we have our ingredients measured and equipment ready, let’s walk through the complete brewing process step by step. We’ll start by heating our filtered water in the medium-sized pot until it reaches the optimal temperature range of 160-180°F.
Step 1: Steep the Jasmine Tea
Place 4 tablespoons of loose leaf jasmine tea or 6 tea bags into our brewing vessel. Pour the heated water over the tea and allow it to steep for 3-6 minutes for tea bags or 6-8 minutes for loose-leaf varieties. The longer steeping time for loose-leaf tea ensures we extract the full floral essence without introducing bitterness.
Step 2: Prepare the Milk Base
While our tea steeps, we combine 1 cup of whole milk and ½ cup of heavy cream in a separate saucepan. Gently warm this mixture over medium-low heat until it reaches a comfortable drinking temperature. Avoid boiling the milk as this can create an unpleasant film on the surface.
Step 3: Strain and Sweeten
Remove the tea bags or strain the loose-leaf tea using our fine-mesh strainer to eliminate all particles. Add 2-3 tablespoons of granulated sugar while the tea remains hot, stirring thoroughly until completely dissolved. This timing ensures optimal sweetness distribution throughout our drink.
Step 4: Combine Tea and Milk
Pour the warm milk mixture into our sweetened jasmine tea base. Stir gently with our mixing spoon to create a smooth, creamy consistency. The pinch of salt we measured earlier goes in now to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Step 5: Final Adjustments and Serving
Taste our creation and adjust sweetness levels if needed. Pour the finished jasmine milk tea into our quality serving cups while still warm. Garnish with a sprinkle of jasmine flowers if desired for an elegant presentation that matches the aromatic experience we’ve crafted.
Directions for Iced Jasmine Milk Tea
We’ll guide you through creating the perfect iced version of our beloved jasmine milk tea with these detailed steps.
Step 1: Steep the Jasmine Tea
Place 2 tablespoons of loose-leaf jasmine green tea in your teapot. Pour 7 ounces of hot water heated to 160-180°F over the tea leaves. Allow the tea to steep for 6-8 minutes to extract the full floral essence without creating bitterness. The precise temperature ensures we capture jasmine’s delicate notes while maintaining the tea’s natural sweetness.
Step 2: Prepare Your Shaker
Add your preferred sweetener to a cocktail shaker while the tea steeps. Simple syrup works exceptionally well for iced preparations since it dissolves easily in cold liquids. Fill the shaker with ice cubes to create the foundation for our chilled beverage.
Step 3: Combine and Chill
Strain the steeped jasmine tea directly over the ice in your prepared shaker. This immediate cooling process locks in the tea’s aromatic compounds while preventing over-extraction. The hot tea will begin melting the ice and creating the perfect temperature balance.
Step 4: Add the Milk Component
Pour 2 ounces of high-quality milk into the shaker with our chilled tea mixture. Whole milk provides the richest texture and best flavor balance with jasmine tea’s floral notes. Secure the shaker lid tightly and shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds until the mixture becomes frothy and well combined.
Step 5: Final Serving
Strain the finished jasmine milk tea into a tall glass filled with fresh ice cubes. The double straining removes any remaining tea particles and ensures a smooth drinking experience. Serve immediately to enjoy the optimal flavor and temperature balance.
Optional Enhancement
Consider adding boba pearls or tapioca pearls to the bottom of your serving glass before pouring the tea. Grass jelly or coconut jelly also provide delightful texture variations that complement jasmine’s floral profile perfectly.
Make-Ahead Instructions
We understand that busy schedules can make it challenging to enjoy freshly brewed jasmine milk tea whenever we crave it. Preparing components ahead of time allows us to savor this aromatic beverage without the wait.
Tea Preparation in Advance
We can steep jasmine tea ahead of time and store it properly for maximum convenience. After brewing our jasmine tea to perfection, we should allow it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, we transfer the tea to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. This method preserves the delicate floral notes while maintaining freshness.
Strong jasmine tea concentrate works exceptionally well for make-ahead preparation. We recommend brewing our tea slightly stronger than usual when preparing it in advance, as dilution occurs when we add milk and ice later.
Boba Storage Guidelines
Tapioca pearls require special attention when preparing ahead. We should cook boba only as needed since these chewy spheres harden over time and lose their signature texture. Fresh boba maintains its delightful bounce for approximately 4 hours at room temperature.
When we must prepare boba in advance, we store them in their cooking liquid or simple syrup to prevent hardening. But, we achieve the best results by cooking tapioca pearls fresh for each serving.
Assembly Strategy
We streamline our jasmine milk tea preparation by organizing ingredients beforehand. Pre-measuring our sweeteners, chilling our preferred milk alternatives, and having ice readily available creates an efficient assembly line. This approach allows us to create multiple servings quickly when entertaining guests or satisfying family cravings.
Our make-ahead jasmine tea stays flavorful and aromatic when stored in glass containers rather than plastic ones. Glass preserves the tea’s delicate jasmine essence without absorbing flavors or odors from the refrigerator.
Storage Tips
Proper storage ensures our homemade jasmine milk tea maintains its delicate floral notes and creamy texture for future enjoyment. We can extend the life of our carefully crafted beverage with these proven preservation methods.
Refrigeration Guidelines
Fresh jasmine milk tea stays at peak quality when stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. We recommend transferring the tea to an airtight glass container to prevent absorption of other flavors. Glass containers preserve the tea’s subtle jasmine essence better than plastic alternatives.
Boba pearls require separate storage considerations due to their unique texture requirements. We should keep cooked tapioca pearls in their cooking liquid and refrigerate for no more than 4 hours. Beyond this timeframe the pearls become tough and lose their signature chewy consistency.
Advanced Preparation Methods
Steeping jasmine tea ahead of time streamlines our tea preparation process significantly. We can brew concentrated jasmine tea and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container. This method allows the tea to develop deeper flavors while maintaining freshness.
When preparing tea concentrate we suggest brewing it slightly stronger than usual. The extra steeping time compensates for dilution when we add milk later. Store the concentrated tea separately from milk components until ready to serve.
Freezing Techniques
| Storage Method | Duration | Best Use |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerated milk tea | 24 hours | Next day consumption |
| Concentrated jasmine tea | 2 days | Make ahead preparation |
| Frozen tea cubes | 1 month | Iced tea chilling |
| Boba pearls (cooked) | 4 hours | Same day serving |
Freezing leftover jasmine milk tea in ice cube trays creates convenient flavor enhancers for future batches. We can use these frozen cubes to chill fresh jasmine milk tea without diluting the taste. Never freeze boba pearls as they become inedible after thawing.
Optimal Serving Preparation
Combine chilled jasmine tea concentrate with fresh milk and boba just before serving for the best texture and flavor balance. We achieve superior results by allowing refrigerated tea to reach room temperature for 10 minutes before mixing with milk. This temperature adjustment prevents the milk from curdling and ensures smooth integration of all components.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving jasmine milk tea in traditional tall glasses to showcase its beautiful creamy color and allow room for any desired toppings. The presentation becomes part of the experience when we use clear glassware that highlights the drink’s elegant appearance.
Temperature preferences play a crucial role in serving this delightful beverage. We suggest offering both warm and chilled versions depending on the season and personal taste. During cooler months, serve the jasmine milk tea warm in ceramic mugs to maintain heat retention. Summer calls for the iced version served in tall glasses filled with ice cubes.
Boba straw selection enhances the drinking experience significantly when we include tapioca pearls. We always use wide bubble tea straws that measure at least 0.5 inches in diameter to easily draw up the chewy boba along with the creamy tea.
Sweetness customization allows each person to enjoy their perfect cup. We start with our base recipe and provide additional sweeteners on the side, including honey, maple syrup, or simple syrup. This approach accommodates different dietary preferences and taste buds.
Flavor enhancement options elevate the basic recipe to restaurant quality. We recommend offering cardamom syrup as a premium add-in that complements the floral jasmine notes beautifully. A few drops transform the drink into an exotic treat.
Quality tea selection makes the difference between good and exceptional jasmine milk tea. We insist on using high-quality loose-leaf jasmine tea or premium tea bags to achieve authentic flavor profiles that rival professional tea shops.
Garnish possibilities add visual appeal and aromatic elements to each serving. We suggest floating a few dried jasmine flowers on top or adding a light dusting of edible gold flakes for special occasions. Fresh mint leaves provide a refreshing contrast to the floral notes.
Portion considerations ensure satisfaction without overwhelming guests. We find that our single-serving recipe works perfectly for individual enjoyment, but we easily double or triple the quantities when entertaining groups while maintaining the same flavor balance.
Recipe Variations
We love experimenting with different approaches to jasmine milk tea to suit various preferences and dietary needs. Each variation brings its own unique character while maintaining the beloved floral essence of jasmine.
Traditional Chinese Style
We prepare this authentic version by steeping 2 jasmine tea bags or 2 teaspoons of loose jasmine tea leaves in 3/4 cup of hot water. The steeping time ranges from 3 to 7 minutes depending on your desired strength preference.
Once our tea reaches the perfect intensity we add 1 tablespoon of honey or coconut sugar and stir until completely dissolved. We then incorporate 1/2 cup of milk and swirl the mixture together until smooth.
This traditional approach can be enjoyed warm for a comforting experience or served over ice for refreshing relief. The simplicity of this method highlights the delicate jasmine flowers without overwhelming the palate.
Bubble Tea Version
We start by preparing tapioca pearls according to their package directions while our jasmine tea steeps. The boba pearls require careful attention to achieve that perfect chewy texture.
Our assembly process begins with layering the cooked boba pearls in a tall glass. We then pour our prepared jasmine milk tea mixture over the pearls creating beautiful visual layers.
The final touch involves serving with a wide bubble tea straw that allows the tapioca pearls to travel smoothly from glass to mouth. This fun variation transforms our elegant tea into an interactive drinking experience that appeals to all ages.
Dairy-Free Alternative
We substitute dairy milk with oat or almond milk to create a completely plant-based version. Oat milk provides exceptional creaminess while almond milk offers a lighter texture with subtle nutty undertones.
Our sweetener adjustments include using maple syrup or coconut sugar instead of honey to maintain the dairy-free integrity. These natural sweeteners complement the jasmine flavor profile beautifully.
For those seeking extra richness we recommend full-fat coconut milk which creates an incredibly creamy texture. We can also experiment with chia seeds or aloe vera cubes as alternatives to traditional tapioca pearls for added nutritional benefits.
Tips for the Perfect Jasmine Milk Tea
Water temperature serves as the foundation for exceptional jasmine milk tea. We recommend heating water to 160-180°F rather than bringing it to a full boil. This temperature range prevents bitter compounds from overwhelming the delicate floral notes that make jasmine tea so special.
Steeping time requires careful attention to achieve the perfect balance. We steep jasmine tea for 6-8 minutes to extract the full floral aroma without introducing harshness. This duration allows the jasmine flowers to release their fragrant oils while maintaining the tea’s smooth character.
Tea strength depends on your personal preference and preparation method. We use 1-2 tea bags or 2 tablespoons of loose leaf jasmine tea per serving. Loose leaf varieties often provide more complex flavors and better control over brewing intensity.
Milk selection significantly impacts the final texture and richness of your drink. We prefer whole milk or high-quality oat milk because these options create the creamy mouthfeel that complements jasmine tea perfectly. The fat content in these milk varieties helps carry the floral flavors throughout each sip.
Sweetener choice affects both taste and dissolving properties. We find simple syrup works exceptionally well because it blends seamlessly without leaving granules. Honey and boba syrup offer alternative flavor profiles that can enhance the overall drinking experience.
Ice preparation creates different textures depending on your serving preference. We shake iced versions with ice to create a frothy texture that lightens the drink. For hot versions we skip the ice entirely and use warmed milk to maintain the proper temperature.
Optional toppings transform your jasmine milk tea into a more substantial treat. We suggest tapioca pearls for traditional boba tea texture or grass jelly for a unique chewy element. These additions turn a simple beverage into an interactive experience that satisfies different texture preferences.
Conclusion
We’ve shared everything you need to transform your kitchen into a premium tea shop with this jasmine milk tea recipe. The delicate floral notes paired with creamy richness create a beverage that’s both sophisticated and comforting.
Whether you choose the traditional warm version or opt for the refreshing iced variation with boba pearls your taste buds will thank you. The make-ahead tips and storage suggestions we’ve provided ensure you can enjoy this luxurious drink whenever the craving strikes.
Now it’s time to put your new skills to the test. Gather your ingredients fire up that kettle and treat yourself to a cup of homemade jasmine milk tea that rivals any café creation. Your perfect afternoon ritual awaits.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is jasmine milk tea?
Jasmine milk tea is a harmonious blend of floral jasmine tea and creamy milk that creates a luxurious, aromatic beverage. It combines the delicate fragrance of jasmine flowers with the smooth texture of milk, making it perfect for cozy moments or entertaining guests. This drink can be served hot or iced and customized with various toppings.
How do I prevent my jasmine tea from becoming bitter?
To prevent bitterness, heat your water to the optimal temperature of 160-180°F rather than boiling. Steep loose-leaf jasmine tea for 6-8 minutes or tea bags for 3-6 minutes. Using filtered water and quality jasmine tea also helps maintain the delicate floral flavor without harsh, bitter notes.
Can I make jasmine milk tea dairy-free?
Yes! Replace dairy milk with oat milk or almond milk for a creamy texture. Use coconut milk for added richness and sweeten with maple syrup or agave instead of regular sugar. You can also add chia seeds for nutritional benefits while maintaining the drink’s delicious flavor profile.
How long can I store homemade jasmine milk tea?
Store homemade jasmine milk tea in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. The jasmine tea concentrate alone can be stored for up to 2 days. Cooked boba pearls should be consumed within 4 hours for the best chewy texture.
What’s the best way to serve jasmine milk tea?
Serve in traditional tall glasses to showcase the creamy color and accommodate toppings. Use ceramic mugs for warm servings during cooler months. For bubble tea versions, use wide bubble tea straws. Garnish with jasmine flowers for an elegant presentation and customize sweetness to taste.
Can I prepare jasmine milk tea in advance?
Yes! Steep jasmine tea in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Pre-measure ingredients and use glass containers to preserve delicate flavors. For best results, combine chilled tea concentrate with fresh milk and toppings just before serving to maintain optimal taste and texture.
What equipment do I need to make jasmine milk tea?
Essential equipment includes a medium-sized pot for boiling water, fine-mesh strainer, measuring cups and spoons, mixing spoon, and quality serving cups. For bubble tea versions, you’ll need wide bubble tea straws. Optional items include a cocktail shaker for iced versions and ice cube trays for freezing concentrate.
How do I make iced jasmine milk tea?
Steep jasmine tea and let it cool completely. In a shaker, combine sweetener with ice, add the chilled tea and milk, then shake well. Serve in a tall glass over ice. Add boba pearls or grass jelly for extra texture and use wide straws for easy sipping.
